Konnichiwa! Expand to Japan

From June 17 to 20, six Portuguese startups will take part in a Business Abroad mission to Japan — heading to Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka for a tailored immersion into one of Asia’s most exciting markets.

Under the name Expand to Japan, this mission is designed to support startups with high-growth potential looking to expand into the Japanese and Asian ecosystems. The program includes curated B2B matchmaking, local networking opportunities, and the support of dedicated Japanese consultants to guide each step of the way.

Three Cities, One Mission

In Tokyo, participants will visit leading innovation hubs such as Urban Lab, CIC Tokyo, and the Tokyo Venture Capital Hub — gaining insights into how Japan blends startup innovation with investment and infrastructure. A special event co-hosted with NSKRE will feature pitch sessions and B2B meetings with Japanese corporates, VCs, and ecosystem leaders.

The second stop will be Nagoya, where the delegation will visit Station AI — one of Japan’s largest emerging innovation hubs — for a local event co-organized with Aichi Prefecture. Startups will present their solutions to regional partners and explore collaboration opportunities in a city known for its industrial strength and commitment to innovation.

The mission will conclude in Osaka with a presence at Expo 2025 Osaka, where the Portugal Pavilion will host a “Startup Day.” The agenda includes an ecosystem presentation by Startup Portugal and AICEP, startup pitches, and business meetings with Japanese stakeholders. A final networking event in Kobe will round out the trip, in collaboration with the city’s innovation hub, Anchor Kobe.

The Portuguese Startups

• INFINITE FOUNDRY – Real-time digital twin software that combines simulation, AI, and computer vision to optimize industrial operations.
• ENLINE – Sensorless Digital Twins and data-driven energy solutions for more efficient and sustainable energy systems.
• HYDRUMEDICAL – Advanced orthopedic and orthobiologic medical devices designed for bone regeneration and minimally invasive surgery.
• WINDCREDIBLE – Silent, smart small wind turbines for urban applications, combined with hybrid monitoring systems.
• KENCKO – Organic fruit and vegetable products designed for modern, health-conscious consumers.
• GREENMENT – Plantable cement that adds greenery to cityscapes, redefining urban sustainability from the ground up.

Backed by Partners

The mission is promoted by Startup Portugal and AICEP, with the support of local governments and institutions in Japan, including Aichi Prefecture, the City of Kobe, and the Portugal Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka. Participating startups will benefit from market knowledge, high-impact meetings, and firsthand experience in Japan’s business culture.

Business Abroad goes East — and we can’t wait to see what comes next.